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Cantigny Greenhouse Offers Botanical Design Classes

Holiday workshops focus on creative and fun decorations for the home

Contact: Jeff Reiter
McCormick Foundation
JReiter@McCormickFoundation.org
630 260 8218


WHEATON, IL, October 13, 2009
The horticulture department at Cantigny Park is offering a series of botanical design classes this fall for people who want their holiday decorations to have a personal touch. The sessions at Cantigny’s greenhouse include an intensive “Holly Daze Workshop” and a snow globe class for children.

“All of these classes are good opportunities to express creativity, socialize with friends and get in the holiday spirit,” said Liz Omura, Cantigny horticulture education and volunteer coordinator. “We’ll have some fun, share some handy techniques and everyone who attends will take home something special and unique.”

Openings still remain for the following classes:

  • Transitional Holiday Wreath
    Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 pm
    Fee: $45
    Create a permanent wreath for Thanksgiving and into the winter holidays.

  • Transitional Holiday Garland
    Wednesday, November 18, 6:30 pm
    Fee: $45
    Create a 4-foot garland for a fireplace mantle, large mirror or holiday table

  • Holly Daze Workshop
    Saturday, November 21, 9:30 am to 3 pm
    Fee: $75 (lunch included)
    Enjoy this all-day Christmas floral workshop filled with tips, demos, expert talks and hands-on projects. Take home a fresh evergreen wreath, gift tags, bows and outdoor container materials.

  • Children’s Snow Globes
    November 24 and 25 (choose one), 1 pm
    Fee: $15
    Make up to three snow globes with all materials provided. For ages 5-8 with accompanying adult.

  • Turkey in the Straw, Turkey in the Hay
    Tuesday, November 24, 6:30 pm
    Fee: $35
    Create a fresh, fun Thanksgiving centerpiece with a colorful floral turkey.

  • Fresh & Frosty Centerpiece
    Wednesday, December 16, 6:30 pm
    Fee: $35
    Create a beautiful fresh arrangement to add a bit of sparkle to your holiday table.


Advance registration is required for each class. Forms may be downloaded at Cantigny.org or call 630 260 8162. Classes meet at the Cantigny greenhouse, so participants should use the Shaffner Road entrance to the park.

For all classes (except snow globes), bring a hand pruner and wire cutter if available. All other materials will be provided.

Cantigny Park is open every day through October from 7 am to sunset. Hours are 9 am to sunset in November and December. More information and a complete schedule of fall events are online at Cantigny.org.